25 Best Backup Software That Leads The Pack Of 2026
10 Best Backup Software Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 25 tools reviewed.
Backup software helps you protect important files and systems by creating secure copies you can restore if something goes wrong.
Many people turn to these tools when they’ve faced data loss from hardware crashes, ransomware, or simple mistakes that delete critical files. Without a clear backup plan, it’s easy to lose hours of work or compromise valuable data.
I’ve worked with teams to set up and maintain backup systems that balance speed, security, and ease of recovery, so they’re ready when disaster strikes. In this guide, I’ll share what I’ve learned to help you choose a backup solution that fits your needs and keeps your data safe.
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Best Backup Software Summary
This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top backup software selections to help you find the best one for your budget and business needs.
| Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best for protection against ransomware | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 2 | Best for VMWare, Hyper-V, and AWS EC2 | Free version available | From $99/socket/year (billed annually) | Website | |
| 3 | Best for unlimited data backup | Free trial available | From $9/user/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 4 | Best for automatic cloud backup | 30-day free trial | From $4.80/user/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 5 | Best for comprehensive cyber protection | 30-day free trial + free demo | From $49.99/user/year | Website | |
| 6 | Best for virtual environments backup | 30-day free trial | From $505/year | Website | |
| 7 | Best for integrated data storage solutions | Free trial with up to 500GB of storage available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 8 | Best for mixed network backups | Not available | From $37.50/user/month | Website | |
| 9 | Best for diverse data management needs | 30-day free trial | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 10 | Best for cloud data management | Free demo available | Pricing upon request. | Website |
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Site24x7
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.6 -
Docker
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.6 -
Pulumi
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.8
Best Backup Software Reviews
Below are my detailed summaries of the best backup software that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer a detailed look at the key features, pros & cons, integrations, and ideal use cases of each tool to help you find the best one for you.
Cloudian HyperStore is a scalable object storage solution designed to tackle capacity-intensive workloads. It's tailored for backup software, ensuring your data is managed efficiently.
Why I Picked Cloudian HyperStore:
I picked Cloudian HyperStore for its advanced data protection features like encryption and compliance. These ensure your data is secure from threats such as ransomware. With hybrid cloud support, you can manage data across on-premises and cloud environments, offering flexibility in storage strategies. Another reason is its full compatibility with Amazon S3, allowing integration with numerous applications and services that support the S3 API. The scalability of HyperStore stands out, enabling expansion of storage capacity without performance issues, which is crucial as your data grows.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include exabyte scalability, allowing you to start small and expand without disruption. The platform offers military-grade security, ensuring protection with the highest number of security certifications in object storage. HyperStore also provides breakthrough performance with impressive read throughput, optimizing CPU utilization. Integrations include AWS, Microsoft, VMware, Veeam, Snowflake, Teradata, Google GCP, Azure Blob, Splunk SmartStore, Hadoop, OpenStack, and CloudStack.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Multiple access gateways (NFS, CIFS, SFTP) enhance usability
- Supports multi-cloud environments
- Highly scalable object storage solution, suitable for large data sets
Cons:
- Initial setup can be complex and time-consuming
- Limited mobile application support
Nakivo is a versatile data protection and backup solution widely recognized for its support for VMWare, Hyper-V, and AWS EC2 environments. It offers an integrated approach to backup, replication, and recovery for these virtualization and cloud platforms.
Why I Picked Nakivo:
I picked Nakivo primarily due to its robust support for popular virtualization platforms and cloud environments like VMWare, Hyper-V, and AWS EC2. Its versatility and integrated features cater well to businesses heavily reliant on these platforms, making it stand out. In my judgment, Nakivo's extensive focus on these platforms validates its position as the best tool for VMWare, Hyper-V, and AWS EC2.
Standout features and integrations:
Nakivo's main features include VMWare backup, Hyper-V backup, and AWS EC2 backup, making it a comprehensive backup solution for these platforms. Notably, Nakivo also provides recovery options like instant file recovery and object recovery for Microsoft Exchange. In terms of integrations, Nakivo fits well into environments using VMWare, Hyper-V, and AWS EC2 and even supports Microsoft Exchange.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Free version available with limited features
- Integrated backup and recovery options
- Strong support for VMWare, Hyper-V, and AWS EC2
Cons:
- Lacks native support for some other cloud platforms
- Full feature set only available with paid version
- Pricing is per socket, not per user
Backblaze is a cloud backup solution that provides unlimited storage capacity. It's an excellent fit for organizations that deal with large volumes of data and need a backup solution that won't limit their storage space.
Why I Picked Backblaze:
I selected Backblaze because it caters specifically to businesses that require ample storage without restrictions. The unlimited backup capacity is a distinct advantage, particularly for data-heavy businesses. It stands out due to this uncapped data backup provision, marking it as the best choice for organizations handling large data volumes.
Standout features and integrations:
Backblaze stands out with features like unlimited data backup and file versioning, which retains old versions of files for up to 30 days. In terms of integrations, it works well with both Windows and macOS, allowing a broad range of businesses to use this backup solution effectively.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Compatibility with both Windows and macOS
- Retains old versions of files for up to 30 days
- Unlimited data backup
Cons:
- No free plan available
- No native support for Linux
- Plans are billed annually, not monthly
Carbonite provides an automatic cloud backup solution that helps protect your most important digital assets. This tool is perfect for organizations looking for a set-it-and-forget-it approach to backing up their data in the cloud.
Why I Picked Carbonite:
I chose Carbonite for its automated cloud backup capabilities. What sets this tool apart is its relentless focus on simplicity and automation, helping to take the worry out of data protection. The fact that it allows automatic, continuous backup makes it an ideal tool for businesses that require consistent data protection without manual labor.
Standout features and integrations:
Carbonite offers features like automatic and continuous cloud backups, which ensure data is always up-to-date and protected. It also offers a remote file access feature, allowing you to access your backed-up files from any device. The tool integrates with popular operating systems and platforms, including Windows, Mac, and Linux.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Compatibility with major operating systems
- Remote file access from any device
- Automatic and continuous cloud backups
Cons:
- Some users have reported slow backup speeds
- May not have the breadth of features some businesses require
- Plans are billed annually, not monthly
Acronis is a powerful, holistic cybersecurity solution that stands as a market leader for comprehensive cyber protection. As its signature feature, Acronis integrates advanced backup, disaster recovery, and robust cybersecurity features in one platform, making it the ideal choice for those seeking exhaustive and efficient digital security.
Why I Picked Acronis:
Acronis is a noteworthy contender in the realm of backup software, boasting a comprehensive suite of tools that cater to various cybersecurity needs. As a user, I found it provides robust cyber protection, integrating backup, disaster recovery, and cybersecurity in a single solution. This unique combination makes Acronis stand out from the rest and justifies its spot in the "Best for comprehensive cyber protection" category. It's my go-to choice when considering extensive and multi-layered data protection.
Standout features and integrations:
Acronis delivers a robust blend of features, including real-time protection, automated backups, and end-to-end encryption. Furthermore, it supports various platforms and operating systems, providing a highly flexible solution for diverse tech environments. The software also integrates seamlessly with popular platforms like Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, and various virtual systems, enhancing its utility across multiple business scenarios.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Provides real-time protection and end-to-end encryption
- Supports a wide range of platforms and operating systems
- Offers a combined solution for backup, cybersecurity, and disaster recovery
Cons:
- Occasional delays reported in customer support response times
- The pricing can be on the higher side for small businesses
- The interface can be somewhat complicated for beginners
Veeam stands as an industry-leading solution specializing in backup and recovery for virtual environments. With its strong focus on virtualized systems, such as VMware vSphere and Microsoft Hyper-V, it offers unmatched data protection capabilities, making it the go-to choice for businesses operating primarily in virtual environments.
Why I Picked Veeam:
Veeam's software is a widely-respected tool known for its remarkable capabilities in handling virtual environments. It particularly excels at creating secure, easily-manageable backups for VMWare and Hyper-V setups. I selected Veeam for its proficiency in this specific scenario, and I believe it stands out for its specialized focus on virtual environments. This specialization renders it the ideal choice for businesses or users who heavily rely on virtual systems, thus earning its spot as "Best for virtual environments backup."
Standout features and integrations:
Veeam shines with its Instant VM Recovery feature, allowing rapid restoration of virtual machines. It also offers Veeam DataLabs, which provides a secure environment to test updates and changes without risking the main operational setup. Veeam integrates well with a host of storage options, including NetApp, Dell EMC, and Nutanix, as well as cloud platforms such as AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Offers a secure environment for testing via Veeam DataLabs
- Instant VM Recovery offers quick restoration
- Excels in handling virtual environments like VMWare and Hyper-V
Cons:
- Customer support may have slower response times during peak hours
- Pricing might be higher than some other solutions
- The user interface can be complex for new users
NetApp is a reputable software that provides integrated data storage solutions. It specializes in helping businesses store, manage, protect, and retain one of their most precious assets: data. Its recognition as an optimal solution for integrated data storage needs comes from its holistic approach to data management, offering a combination of backup, recovery, and storage functionalities.
Why I Picked NetApp:
I picked NetApp because it offers more than just backup; it's a comprehensive data management solution. The deciding factors for me were its ability to integrate data storage with data backup and its focus on optimizing storage device efficiency. Its breadth of offerings and emphasis on an integrated approach make it different from other tools on the list. In my judgment, NetApp is the best choice for businesses seeking a combined solution for their data storage and backup needs.
Standout features and integrations:
NetApp shines with its feature-rich data storage solutions. Notably, its SnapMirror technology facilitates efficient data replication and backup, while FlexClone allows for swift and space-efficient data cloning. It integrates well with various applications and platforms such as Oracle, SAP, Microsoft Exchange, and SharePoint, enabling seamless data backup and recovery across different workloads.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Wide range of application and platform integrations
- Efficient data replication with SnapMirror
- Integrated data storage and backup solution
Cons:
- Some users report steep learning curve
- Could be overwhelming for small businesses
- Complex pricing structure
Veritas Backup Exec is a robust, flexible data protection solution that excels in safeguarding both physical and virtual environments. Its ability to seamlessly handle mixed network backups, regardless of whether data resides on-premises, in virtual systems, or in cloud-based platforms, makes it an ideal solution for organizations with hybrid IT infrastructures.
Why I Picked Veritas Backup Exec:
Veritas Backup Exec provides robust and reliable data protection for physical, virtual, and cloud environments. Its main advantage is its ability to back up mixed network setups, making it an invaluable tool for diverse IT infrastructures. I selected Veritas Backup Exec for this list because of its agility in handling different types of network configurations. In my comparison, it stands out as the best solution for users with mixed network environments, providing reliable backup operations across the board.
Standout features and integrations:
Veritas Backup Exec's top feature is its flexible backup and recovery solution that caters to various platforms, including physical, virtual, and cloud environments. Furthermore, its Instant Recovery feature minimizes downtime by quickly restoring virtual machines. In terms of integrations, Veritas Backup Exec can work smoothly with a multitude of platforms, such as Microsoft Hyper-V, VMware vSphere, Amazon S3, and Microsoft Azure, to name a few.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Broad range of platform integrations
- Instant Recovery feature for quick restoration of virtual machines
- Flexibility in handling mixed network configurations
Cons:
- Some advanced features require additional purchase
- Customer support could be more responsive
- Interface could be more user-friendly
Commvault is a recognized leader in enterprise data management, offering comprehensive solutions for data backup, recovery, and archiving across diverse environments. With its ability to handle a broad array of data types and sources and its flexible customization features, Commvault emerges as the top pick for organizations with diverse and complex data management needs.
Why I Picked Commvault:
Commvault is a comprehensive data management solution designed to address a wide array of data needs. It's an all-in-one package that excels at backup, recovery, and archiving operations. What led me to choose Commvault for this list is its versatility in handling various data management tasks. It's uniquely positioned as a solution that provides broad data protection coverage and is, therefore, the best option for users with diverse data management needs.
Standout features and integrations:
Key features of Commvault include its live sync capability, which ensures minimal downtime during recovery operations, and its hardware snapshot management, which supports a wide array of storage arrays. In terms of integrations, Commvault plays well with several databases, applications, and virtual environments, making it suitable for many different system setups. Notable integrations include Microsoft 365, Google Cloud, AWS, and Azure.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Wide array of integrations with databases, applications, and virtual environments
- Live sync feature ensures minimal downtime during recovery
- Versatile and comprehensive data management capabilities
Cons:
- The customer service experience could be improved
- The cost might be on the higher side for smaller businesses
- The platform might feel complex to first-time users
Rubrik is a software platform that simplifies backup and recovery for enterprises across hybrid and multi-cloud environments. Its versatility and robustness make it an excellent solution for organizations seeking comprehensive cloud data management. Rubrik stands out for its ability to provide a unified, policy-driven platform for data recovery and cloud mobility.
Why I Picked Rubrik:
I selected Rubrik primarily for its impressive cloud data management capabilities. The tool's ability to adapt to diverse cloud environments while maintaining consistent, policy-driven data management was a standout feature for me. This uniqueness in delivering holistic cloud data management makes Rubrik the optimal choice for businesses with complex, multi-cloud infrastructures.
Standout features and integrations:
Rubrik delivers features like instant data recovery, automated protection, and secure data archival. The platform also enables easy cloud migration and includes a unified dashboard for managing data across all systems and platforms. Crucially, Rubrik integrates with a plethora of platforms, including AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud, which allows for seamless data management across multiple cloud environments.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Unified dashboard for data management across all systems
- Integration with multiple cloud platforms
- Comprehensive cloud data management
Cons:
- Some users report a need for technical expertise to fully utilize the platform
- May not be suitable for small businesses
- Custom pricing model may be complex for some
Other Backup Software
Here are some additional backup software options that didn’t make it onto my shortlist, but are still worth checking out:
- Arcserve Unified Data Protection
For disaster recovery
- Druva
For data protection as a service
- Zerto
For business continuity and resilience
- EaseUS ToDo Backup
Good for personal users needing easy data protection
- Code42
Good for organizations combating insider threats
- Macrium Reflect
Good for users needing rapid disk imaging
- MSP360
Good for MSPs requiring multi-tenant backup
- Iperius Backup
Good for businesses needing drive imaging
- Paragon
Good for advanced disk partitioning
- GoodSync
Good for real-time automated synchronization
- NovaBACKUP
Good for businesses requiring HIPAA-compliant backups
- Dell EMC NetWorker
Good for enterprises needing scalable solutions
- Retrospect
Good for businesses needing endpoint protection
- Altaro VM Backup
Good for VMware and Hyper-V environments
Backup Software Selection Criteria
When selecting the best backup software to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points like data security and ease of use. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair:
Core Functionality (25% of total score)
To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases:
- Data backup and recovery
- File versioning
- Scheduled backups
- Encryption of data
- Cloud storage integration
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique features, such as:
- Real-time backup
- Cross-platform compatibility
- Artificial intelligence integration
- Customizable backup rules
- Multi-user access control
Usability (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the usability of each system, I considered the following:
- Intuitive interface
- Easy navigation
- Minimal setup time
- Accessibility across devices
- Clear documentation
Onboarding (10% of total score)
To evaluate the onboarding experience for each platform, I considered the following:
- Availability of training videos
- Interactive product tours
- Access to templates
- Responsive chatbots
- Live webinars
Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess each software provider’s customer support services, I considered the following:
- 24/7 support availability
- Multiple contact channels
- Knowledgeable support staff
- Comprehensive FAQs
- Fast response times
Value For Money (10% of total score)
To evaluate the value for money of each platform, I considered the following:
- Competitive pricing
- Variety of pricing plans
- Feature-rich offerings
- Transparent pricing structure
- Free trial availability
Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of overall customer satisfaction, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:
- Positive user feedback
- Consistency in performance
- Highlighted strengths
- Reported issues
- Overall satisfaction ratings
How to Choose Backup Software
It’s easy to get bogged down in long feature lists and complex pricing structures. To help you stay focused as you work through your unique software selection process, here’s a checklist of factors to keep in mind:
| Factor | What to Consider |
|---|---|
| Scalability | Can the software grow with your needs? Consider if it supports increasing data volumes and users without significant cost hikes or performance drops. |
| Integrations | Does it connect with your existing tools? Check for compatibility with your current systems to avoid data silos and manual data transfers. |
| Customizability | Can you tailor it to your workflows? Look for options to tweak settings, reports, and processes to fit your specific needs. |
| Ease of use | Is it user-friendly? Evaluate the interface and user experience to ensure your team can use it without extensive training. |
| Implementation and onboarding | How long will setup take? Assess the time and resources needed to get the software up and running smoothly. |
| Cost | Is it within your budget? Compare pricing plans and hidden fees to ensure it fits your financial constraints. |
| Security safeguards | Are your data protected? Check for encryption, access controls, and compliance with data protection standards to secure your information. |
| Support availability | Is help readily available? Consider the provider's support hours and channels to ensure you can get assistance when needed. |
What Is Backup Software?
Backup software is a tool that makes copies of data so you can recover it after things like system crashes, malware, or accidental deletion. It's used by IT teams, small business owners, and anyone who wants to keep files and systems safe. Features like scheduled backups, encryption, and cloud storage help with protecting important data, making restores easier, and giving peace of mind. Regular system maintenance, including using disk cleanup software, can also help ensure your backup processes run smoothly by freeing up storage space. These tools let people worry less about losing work or customer information.
Features
When selecting backup software, keep an eye out for the following key features:
- Automated backups: Automatically schedule and perform data backups to ensure you always have the latest data saved without manual intervention.
- Encryption: Protect your data by encrypting it during transfer and storage, ensuring privacy and compliance with data protection standards.
- Cloud storage integration: Seamlessly connect with cloud storage providers to store your backups off-site, providing an additional layer of security.
- File versioning: Keep multiple versions of files to allow easy retrieval of previous file states, useful for recovering from accidental changes.
- Real-time backup: Continuously back up data as changes occur, minimizing data loss in case of unexpected failures.
- Cross-platform compatibility: Support various operating systems and devices, ensuring all your data sources are covered.
- Customizable backup rules: Set specific criteria for what gets backed up and when, allowing flexibility to meet your unique needs.
- Multi-user access control: Manage and control access to backup data for different users, enhancing security and collaboration.
- Data recovery: Quickly restore data to its original state after loss or corruption, minimizing downtime and disruption.
- Intuitive interface: Navigate and manage backups easily with a user-friendly interface that requires minimal training.
Benefits
Implementing backup software provides several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:
- Data protection: Automated backups and encryption keep your data safe from loss and unauthorized access.
- Business continuity: Quick data recovery ensures minimal downtime, helping your business run smoothly even after disruptions.
- Compliance support: Encryption and secure storage help meet data protection regulations, reducing compliance risks.
- Cost savings: Preventing data loss saves potential costs associated with data recovery and loss of business.
- Flexibility: Customizable backup rules and multi-user access control adapt to your team's unique workflows and security needs.
- Time efficiency: Automated processes and intuitive interfaces reduce the time spent on manual backups and training.
- Peace of mind: Knowing your data is securely backed up and easily recoverable provides reassurance to you and your team.
Costs & Pricing
Selecting backup software requires an understanding of the various pricing models and plans available. Costs vary based on features, team size, add-ons, and more. The table below summarizes common plans, their average prices, and typical features included in SaaS backup software solutions:
Plan Comparison Table for Backup Software
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
|---|---|---|
| Free Plan | $0 | Basic data backup, limited storage, and community support. |
| Personal Plan | $5-$25/user/month | Automated backups, encryption, cloud storage integration, and basic support. |
| Business Plan | $20-$50/user/month | Advanced encryption, file versioning, multi-user access, and priority support. |
| Enterprise Plan | $50-$100/user/month | Customizable backup rules, real-time backup, cross-platform compatibility, and dedicated support. |
Backup Software FAQs
Here are some answers to common questions about backup software:
How often should you perform backups?
The frequency of backups depends on the importance of your data and how often it changes. For critical business data, daily or even real-time backups might be necessary. For less critical information, weekly backups could suffice. Always consider the potential impact of data loss when deciding.
Can backup software handle large data volumes?
Yes, many backup solutions are designed to scale and handle large amounts of data. When evaluating software, check for scalability features and ensure they can accommodate your data growth without significant performance issues or cost increases.
How do you test backup and recovery processes?
Regularly test your backup and recovery processes to ensure they work as expected. Schedule test recoveries to verify data integrity and recovery speed. This practice helps identify potential issues before they affect your operations and ensures your team is prepared for real scenarios.
What’s Next:
If you're in the process of researching backup software, connect with a SoftwareSelect advisor for free recommendations.
You fill out a form and have a quick chat where they get into the specifics of your needs. Then you'll get a shortlist of software to review. They'll even support you through the entire buying process, including price negotiations.